TRIBUTES have been paid to a 26-year-old cyclist who died after a crash with a car.

Jack Berry was described by his family as a 'keen sportsman', having played rugby and football for clubs in Abercarn and Blackwood, as well as representing Cwmcarn High School in a variety of sports. 

The 26-year-old died after a crash with a car on the A48 in the Vale of Glamorgan on Saturday.

Paying tribute, his family said: “Despite achieving great success in his GCSEs Jack had already made the decision to follow his parents into the British Army.

"He achieved great success both on the sports field, where he again represented the AGC in a number of sports, although by now his real talent was shining through on the rugby field where he played in the back row, displaying the positive attitude, steely determination and tireless work ethic that was to become the hallmark of his life.

“During his six years’ service Jack proudly served with B Coy, 2 Royal Welsh including a tour of Afghanistan where once again his positive mindset, sense of humour and infectious smile came to the fore.

"In 2014 Jack married Luisa and they were both happily enjoying married life in their home in Cardiff Bay.

“The last 12 months has seen Jack training and working as a chef at the Bush Inn, St Hilary where he not only demonstrated a talent for cooking but his uncanny knack of making friends across the generations and impacting everybody he encountered in a positive way.

"Whilst working at the Bush Inn he discovered a passion for Triathlon and tragically died whilst out on a training ride.

“He died, just as he lived his whole life, with a smile on his face and doing the things he loved with the people he loved. Jack was a loving husband, son, brother, nephew, cousin, grandson and friend of so many people…..he will be sorely missed."

Police officers are continuing to investigate the collision, which happened at around 7.20am, when a white Skoda Octavia collided with a group of three cyclists on the A48 between the Cowbridge by-pass and Pentre Meyrick.

A 36-year-old local man has arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving has been released under investigation.

Officers investigation the incident are still appealing for any witnesses, or anyone who may have seen the manner in which the car was being driven prior to the collision, and who may not have already done so, to contact South Wales Police on 101 or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 and quote reference 1700418785.